As homeowners who live in breathtaking destinations like Coastal California, the Hamptons, and Palm Beach know all too well, curating a property that reflects the serenity and beauty of your surroundings is essential. Whether designing a contemporary oceanfront retreat from the ground up or renovating a mid-century modern masterpiece, the 20 interior design books listed below offer boundless inspiration.
With sleek lines, thoughtfully selected materials, and a focus on seamless indoor-outdoor living, the homes in the pages of these books seamlessly integrate contemporary design with the natural beauty of the coast. Some are perched atop rugged cliffs and others are nestled among sand dunes, but all encourage us to enhance our own coastal retreats.
20 Coastal Architecture and Interior Design Books We Love
The Sea Ranch: Fifty Years of Architecture, Landscape, Place, and Community on the Northern California Coast by Donlyn Lyndon and Jim Alinder
For those who own homes along the rugged Northern California coast, this book provides a comprehensive look at the iconic Sea Ranch community. It explores 50 years of architecture and landscape design that balance sustainability with stunning views of the Pacific. Homeowners will find ideas for integrating their spaces into natural surroundings while maintaining a sense of style and community.
Soft Minimal: Norm Architects: A Sensory Approach to Architecture and Design by Norm Architects
Coastal homeowners seeking a modern, understated style will find this first book published by Norm Architects invaluable. It delves into Norm Architects’ sensory approach to design, focusing on creating calming interiors that engage all the senses.
This book showcases a curated selection of their residential and commercial projects across Scandinavia, Italy, and Japan—reflecting on Nordic traditions, modernist principles, and the importance of natural materials. With examples of beautifully designed coastal homes, the book offers actionable ideas for achieving a balance between simplicity and sophistication.
California Houses: Creativity in Context by Michael Webb
This book celebrates thirty-six extraordinary homes that reflect California’s adventurous spirit and innovative architecture. Spanning forests, deserts, city streets, and oceanfronts, these houses balance sustainability with bold design—employing strategies like solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and passive ventilation.
Michael Webb showcases a range of styles, from expansive retreats to budget-friendly bungalows, all thoughtfully crafted to enhance their environments and the lives of their owners. From the beginning to the end, this book is a must-read for anyone inspired by California’s diverse and forward-thinking approach to architecture.
Homes for Our Time: Contemporary Houses Around the World by Philip Jodidio
This stunning compilation celebrates beach houses and contemporary homes that seamlessly blend architecture with their natural surroundings. Featuring the work of renowned architects like Shigeru Ban and rising stars such as Shunri Nishizawa, the book spans diverse locations, from Vietnam to Mexico, showcasing how design transcends geography.
Highlights include minimalist seaside marvels and tropical retreats, each offering a fresh perspective on indoor-outdoor living. Perfect for those inspired by cutting-edge design, this multilingual edition captures the global essence of modern coastal living.
Earth, Sky & Water: Houses in the Nordic Style by Mette Lange and Kenneth Frampton
This new book is a valuable resource for homeowners who appreciate minimalist yet impactful coastal designs. It explores Nordic-inspired homes that seamlessly connect with their natural environments—offering practical tips on using light, materials, and space.
Coastal homeowners will find it particularly inspiring for creating serene, uncluttered spaces that prioritize harmony with the outdoors.
Veranda Waterside Living: Inspired Interior Design by Jennifer Boles
Jennifer Boles takes readers on a journey through some of the world’s most breathtaking waterside homes. This elegant book explores the interplay between architecture, interior design, and the serene beauty of water.
With spectacular photos and thoughtful commentary, this book is a complete resource for creating a peaceful home by the water.
Coastal Style: Home Decorating Ideas Inspired by Seaside Living by Sally Hayden and Alice Whately
This beautifully written book is a must-have for those drawn to the charm of seaside living. It showcases homes worldwide and offers valuable tips and inspiration for creating spaces that reflect the coastal lifestyle.
Readers will appreciate the carefully curated images, decorating ideas, and insights into the unique elements of seaside design. This book is a wonderful reference for interior designers and enthusiasts alike.
Coastal Modern: Sophisticated Homes Inspired by the Ocean by Tim Clarke
Blending contemporary design with the timeless charm of the coast, this book presents a more sophisticated take on seaside living. Tim Clarke provides readers with detailed examples of homes that perfectly balance modern aesthetics and coastal elements.
The book’s pages are filled with stunning images, making it a valuable resource for interior decorators and design enthusiasts seeking inspiration.
Surf Shack: Laid-Back Living by the Water by Nina Freudenberger
This book captures the essence of laid-back coastal living, offering a glimpse into unique homes influenced by surf culture. With vibrant photos and insightful commentary, it explores how residents have transformed their spaces into personal sanctuaries by the water.
It’s both a celebration of the surf lifestyle and a practical guide for creating casual, inspiring interiors.
New Coastal: Inspiration for a Life by the Sea by Ingrid Weir
Ingrid Weir’s beautifully designed book showcases coastal towns and homes across Australia and the U.S. It celebrates the harmony between modern interiors and the natural beauty of the sea. Complete with stunning visuals and thoughtful details, this book inspires readers to create their own serene coastal spaces.
Palm Beach Living by Jennifer Ash Rudick and Nick Mele
This vibrant book captures the essence of Palm Beach’s iconic style, blending lush tropical elegance with timeless sophistication. Jennifer Ash Rudick—with stunning photography by Nick Mele—showcases the unique charm of coastal living in one of the world’s most luxurious seaside locales.
Readers will be inspired by the detailed interiors, exquisite furniture, and breathtaking outdoor spaces that embody Palm Beach’s laid-back yet refined aesthetic. Perfect for those seeking inspiration for their own coastal retreats, this book is a celebration of effortless glamour by the sea.
Design in the Hamptons by Anthony Iannacci
For coastal homeowners looking to elevate their spaces, this book offers a glimpse into 19 private residences in the Hamptons. It showcases architecture, interiors, and gardens that harmonize with their natural surroundings.
Each house reflects a sophisticated yet approachable design style, offering practical inspiration for homeowners seeking to blend luxury with coastal charm. The beautiful layouts and thoughtful details make this book a perfect companion for designing a dream coastal retreat.
Blue Dream and the Legacy of Modernism in the Hamptons: A House by Diller Scofidio + Renfro
Targeted specifically at those who appreciate modernist architecture, this book dives deep into the design and construction of a stunning Hamptons home. It provides valuable insights into how modernist principles can be applied to coastal homes while respecting the surrounding environment.
In our opinion, this tome is perfect for homeowners seeking bold, innovative designs that capture the spirit of contemporary coastal living.
Living by the Sea by Wim Pauwels
Ideal for homeowners who cherish the serenity of coastal living, this book showcases modern homes that embody the simplicity and beauty of life by the water. It provides practical decorating tips and stunning examples of how to create spaces that celebrate natural light and the surrounding landscape. Readers will find plenty of ideas to design homes that embrace the calming essence of the sea.
At Home on the Water by Jaci Conry
For coastal homeowners who enjoy entertaining, this book provides a wealth of ideas for creating inviting and functional spaces that embrace waterside living. From elegant furniture arrangements to thoughtful decor, each page offers actionable tips for turning a house by the water into a true haven. This book is a celebration of both style and practicality, making it a go-to resource for coastal living enthusiasts.
Home by the Sea: The Surf Shacks and Hinterland Hideaways of Byron Bay by Natalie Walton
This book speaks to homeowners who appreciate a laid-back, bohemian approach to coastal living. It highlights the unique surf shacks and hinterland retreats of Byron Bay—showcasing how to blend natural materials, bold textures, and personalized decor. Readers will be inspired to create spaces that feel authentic, inviting, and deeply connected to their surroundings.
A House by the Sea by Bunny Williams
This book is perfect for homeowners seeking to transform their coastal properties into warm, inviting retreats. Iconic interior designer Bunny Williams shares the design process behind her stunning seaside home—offering readers insights into creating spaces that reflect both personal style and the tranquility of the coast.
This book is a complete guide to coastal living, with chapters on furniture placement, decor, and gardening.
Montecito Style: Paradise on California’s Gold Coast by Firooz Zahedi and Lorie Dewhirst Porter
This book will captivate homeowners seeking inspiration for luxurious coastal living. It features stunning homes from Montecito, featuring lush gardens, breathtaking interiors, and seamless indoor-outdoor spaces.
Rich visuals and expert commentary provide a wealth of ideas for creating a coastal home that feels like paradise.
Richard Neutra: Survival through Design by Barbara Lamprecht
Though not technically dedicated to waterfront homes, this book is a must-read for homeowners interested in iconic modernist architecture along the coast. It explores Richard Neutra’s pioneering work—with a focus on homes that integrate seamlessly with their natural surroundings.
The detailed chapters and stunning photos provide a blueprint for creating timeless coastal properties with a modern edge.
California Homes II: Studio William Hefner by Studio William Hefner and Lisa Light
This beautifully illustrated monograph celebrates the transformative power of Studio William Hefner’s architectural and interior design work. Showcasing an impressive portfolio of homes, from sleek contemporary spaces to refined traditional designs, the book highlights Hefner’s ability to craft residences that harmonize with Southern California’s natural beauty.
Each home reflects the studio’s philosophy of tailoring every detail to the client’s unique vision—seamlessly integrating architecture, interior design, and landscape. With a signature style that combines airy, light-filled spaces and luxurious materials, this volume is an inspiring resource for anyone drawn to elegant and personalized residential design.
In Closing…
The 20 interior design books outlined above offer a window into the minds of incredibly talented contemporary coastal architects and interior designers. Whether you’re looking for practical ideas to implement yourself or visual inspiration to pass on to your designer, these volumes promise to enrich your journey as a coastal homeowner while impressing the guests who linger in your foyer or relax in your great room.
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